CONTEMPORARY-ISSUES IN THE EMERGENCY CARE OF CHILDREN WITH ASTHMA

The morbidity and mortality of pediatric asthma continue to be signifi cant in the United States. This article discusses the rationale for th e National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Guidelines issued in 1991 and 1997, and uses them as a basis for treating the acute asthma exace rbation in a child. Newer modalities of treatment are discussed with p articular attention to the use of continuous nebulization of beta agon ists, inhalation of ipratroprium bromide, heliox, terbutaline infusion s and magnesium sulfate. Both the scientific support for the current m anagement of asthma and the practical aspects of clinical management a re reviewed.